09 Oct 2023
Digging deep for the next stage of the Tamar Estuary River Health Action Plan
Work has commenced on the most ambitious stage of the Tamar Estuary River Health Action Plan, which is the construction of a three kilometre, one-metre diameter pipeline that will travel 40 metres under the riverbed of kanamaluka/Tamar estuary.
TasWater General Manager Project Delivery Tony Willmott said it was a great day for the local construction sector.
“Eight Tasmanian contractors are supporting the delivery of this new pipeline, one of the most ambitious drilling projects undertaken in the state,’’ Tony said.
“Working with local talent to deliver local projects means the whole community sees the benefits of this large investment in Launceston.
“This is one of largest projects of its kind in the state and a testament to the homegrown skills and knowledge we have in the construction sector.
“It’s also an exciting day for the residents of Launceston, marking the start of the next big step towards a healthier kanamaluka/Tamar estuary.
“The new pipeline will connect the Margaret Street Sewage Pump Station, which is also currently being upgraded at Kings Park, with the Ti Tree Bend Sewage Treatment Plant at Invermay.
“It will increase our capacity to transfer sewage and stormwater during periods of high rainfall which significantly reduces the frequency and volume of overflow events and improves estuary health.
“Two drill rigs will be utilised for the project to first drill a pilot hole from either end before both rigs ream the path for the new pipeline.
“It’s a large project and we’ve worked closely with the City of Launceston to ensure we minimise the impact on the local businesses and community, while these works are completed,’’ Tony said.
City of Launceston Mayor, Matthew Garwood, said it was exciting to see the opportunities for the kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary.
“As a funding partner of the Tamar Estuary River Health Action Plan (TERHAP), the City of Launceston is excited at the opportunities ahead to improve the health of the kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary,’’ Matthew said.
“The Council has committed $11 million towards the river health action plan, which will see sewage and stormwater flows diverted away from the estuary.
“The City of Launceston congratulates TasWater on the opening of the new Margaret Street Pump Station and we look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with TasWater on future projects to improve the health of the river.’’
TERHAP is an initiative of the Tamar Estuary Management Taskforce (TEMT) and the Launceston City Deal, to improve the health of kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary.
A total of $129.2 million is being invested by the Australian Government, Tasmanian Government, TasWater and City of Launceston under the Launceston City Deal to implement the key actions in the plan.
TasWater is currently delivering a planned 10-year, $1.84 billion capital investment program for completion in financial year 2025-26. Tasmanian businesses involved in the pipeline project:
- Gradco
- Poly Welding Solutions
- Clennetts Hire
- Paneltec
- MJ Cook Agricultural Supplies
- Pfeiffer Cranes
- Tasmanian Tree Care
- Tasman Geotechnics